Rafa wanted qualification

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez was disappointed that his side did not book Champions League qualification last night, but insisted both Atletico and the Reds could both secure qualification for the next round.

"It was disappointing that it all came down to having to score from a penalty," said Benitez, who bemoaned the fact Liverpool should have had a spot-kick earlier in the game.

"There was a clear handball in the second half that was not given, and had that offence against Steven taken place in the middle of the pitch it would have been a free-kick, so it was a penalty.

"The key for us was not to lose in such a tight match. We are still right up at the top with them, we can both qualify."